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Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has announced its official partnership as the airline sponsor for the 2026 Masters Games, which kicks off tomorrow and runs until February 15 across more than 20 sporting venues throughout Abu Dhabi. The strategic collaboration marks a significant milestone in positioning Abu Dhabi as a premier global destination for major international sporting events.
The partnership agreement was formalized during an official signing ceremony between the International Masters Games Association and Etihad Airways on February 5, 2026, in Abu Dhabi. His Excellency Aref Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief Human Resources and Government and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, signed the agreement designating Etihad as the official airline partner for the inaugural Masters Games in the emirate.
Etihad Airways Partnership Strengthens Abu Dhabi Sports Profile
The collaboration between Etihad Airways and the Masters Games represents more than a commercial sponsorship arrangement. According to officials, the partnership reinforces Abu Dhabi’s commitment to sports as a lifestyle that unites different ages, cultures, and communities while supporting the local sports landscape.
His Excellency Aref Al Awani emphasized the significance of the airline partnership during the announcement. As the Supreme Organizing Committee for the Abu Dhabi Masters Games 2026, he expressed satisfaction in partnering with an airline that possesses an extensive international legacy and broad experience in logistics and hospitality services for global events, according to the official statement released by the Emirates News Agency.
International Athletic Event Spans Multiple Venues
The 2026 Masters Games will utilize sporting facilities distributed across various areas of Abu Dhabi throughout the 10-day competition period. The multi-venue format allows the event to showcase the emirate’s comprehensive sports infrastructure while accommodating diverse athletic disciplines and participants from around the world.
Additionally, the airline’s involvement as the official aviation partner provides essential transportation support for international athletes, officials, and spectators traveling to the capital city. Etihad’s extensive global network positions it strategically to facilitate smooth travel logistics for participants arriving from different continents.
Strategic Benefits for Abu Dhabi Tourism and Sports Development
Dr. Nadia Bastaki highlighted Etihad Airways’ pride in securing the official partnership agreement for the Masters Games in Abu Dhabi. The collaboration reflects the airline’s steadfast commitment to strengthening connections between peoples, cultures, and ideas, she stated during the signing ceremony.
Meanwhile, the partnership aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to establish itself as a leading international sports tourism destination. The emirate has consistently invested in world-class sporting infrastructure and has hosted numerous prestigious international competitions across various disciplines in recent years.
The Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 represents the first edition of this international athletic celebration to be held in the Middle East region. The event brings together amateur and recreational athletes from the masters age category, typically those aged 25 and above, to compete in a spirit of friendship and sportsmanship.
Community Impact and Legacy Objectives
In contrast to professional sporting events, the Masters Games emphasizes inclusivity and participation over elite competition. The format encourages lifelong engagement with sports and physical activity while fostering international cultural exchange among participants.
Furthermore, Etihad Airways’ active contribution extends beyond transportation services to encompass broader support for Abu Dhabi’s community and its evolving sports ecosystem. The airline’s involvement demonstrates corporate commitment to social initiatives that enhance quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
As the Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 commences tomorrow, organizers and sponsors will monitor participation levels, logistical execution, and overall event success. The outcomes will likely influence decisions regarding future editions and Abu Dhabi’s candidacy for hosting similar international multi-sport gatherings in the coming years.
